𝘛𝘏𝘌 𝘊𝘖𝘔𝘍𝘖𝘙𝘛 𝘖𝘍 𝘏𝘌𝘙 𝘗𝘙𝘌𝘚𝘌𝘕𝘊𝘌

CHAPTER 16

ADITI'S POV

I stand in front of my armoire, debating what to wear. Today is Naina's birthday, and every year, she hosts a cozy little gathering at her place.

I finally decide on a rose gold dress she gifted me for my birthday—a dress I've saved for something special. Today feels perfect; I know Naina will love seeing me in it.

It has a simple yet sophisticated square neckline that highlights my collarbones, framed by short, cap sleeves that give it a timeless, delicate touch. The fabric drapes gracefully over my figure, flowing down to the floor with a natural, gentle sway. It hugs at the waist, accentuating my curves before falling smoothly in a slender silhouette. The luxurious sheen catches the light beautifully, giving the dress a warm glow. Paired with a small clutch and subtle jewelry, it’s perfect for the occasion.

I always go early to help Naina with the arrangements.

I arrive at her house, and there she is—my beautiful Naina, standing by the door, looking radiant. She's dressed in a stunning red gown that hugs her silhouette elegantly, with a square neckline that frames her collarbone gracefully. The puffed sleeves add a touch of drama, while the fitted waist flows seamlessly into a soft, flared hem. She’s holding a delicate, pearl-beaded bag in one hand, adding a hint of shimmer to her ensemble. Her hair is pulled back with a simple clip, letting her natural beauty shine effortlessly.

“Happy Birthday, Naina!” I say, running towards her and wrapping her in a tight hug. She laughs softly, returning my embrace just as tightly.

“Thank you so much,” she whispers, holding me close.

We stay like that, hugging for a long moment, and I feel a warmth and comfort that only she can give.

She’s like a mother to me. She calls me her daughter, and it always makes my heart swell.

As I pull back, I see the joy in her eyes, and it fills me with happiness.

“Just like every year, let me remind you of that day that made us laugh like crazy—even Mom, who was in the hospital at the time, couldn’t help but laugh when she heard about it,” I say, a grin spreading across my face as I look at Naina.

“No…,” Naina says, trying to leave.

I grab her shoulders, my excitement bubbling over. “Exactly fifteen years ago, when you decided to take part in my school’s Mother’s Day dance competition, and they played the wrong song!”

“STOP!” Naina retorts, mock annoyance in her eyes.

I can’t help but continue, my voice rising as I start to sing that song: “ज़रा ज़रा Touch me Touch me...”

I start dancing playfully, teasing her with every move. Naina can’t resist, and soon we’re both laughing, the memory of that day flooding back, filling the room with joy.

It’s moments like these that remind us of the laughter we’ve shared, even in the toughest times.

I continue my silly dance moves, swaying and twirling until Naina finally grabs my ear between her fingers. “Ouch!” I laugh, wincing playfully.

“Stop teasing me!” she insists, her face a mix of annoyance and amusement.

“Okay, okay,” I say, trying to catch my breath. Just then, I notice Jay and Harsh standing there, watching us.

Jay looks utterly lost, his expression distant as if he’s wandered into another world.

He looks effortlessly handsome in his light blue shirt and beige pants, a silver wristwatch glinting on his wrist. His hair is perfectly styled, and his leather shoes add a touch of sophistication. He’s the kind of person whose beauty goes beyond the surface—good-hearted, a rare blend of integrity and extraordinary good looks. I can’t help but gaze at him, captivated by this perfect combination of outer charm and inner warmth.

"Sorry, boys! Bet you weren’t expecting this spectacularly annoying dance number—right here at the entrance, no less!" Naina calls out, grinning as we all try to hide our embarrassment.

They both remain silent, eyes wide, processing what they’ve just witnessed.

“You guys saw everything?” I ask, my voice a mix of disbelief and embarrassment.

Harsh nods slowly, while Jay continues to look dazed, as if he’s not quite sure where he is.

I clear my throat, heat rushing to my cheeks as I realize just how ridiculous we must have looked. “Well, that was… something,” I say, attempting to regain my composure.

Naina shoots me a knowing smile, and we both burst into laughter again, the moment lightening the awkwardness that hung in the air.

I couldn’t resist the urge to keep the fun going. “Oh ज़रा-ज़रा! Touch me, touch me…” I burst into song again.

Naina’s eyes widen with mock fury as she lunges at me, her hand raised as if she’s about to give me a playful smack. “I’ll get you for this!” she threatens, but before she can catch me, I take off, laughing as I dash inside.

“Come back here!” she calls after me, her voice trailing behind as I weave through the rooms, trying to escape her playful wrath. The sound of our laughter echoes through the house, a reminder of the joy we share.

....

It's just a small trailer of the upcoming chapter.